Dodder Seed
Cuscuta chinensis / australis
菟丝子
Pinyin: Tù Sī Zǐ
Plant Family
Convolvulaceae
Part Used
Seed
Origin
Jiangsu, Liaoning, Jilin provinces of China
Safety Level
Safe
Overview
Dodder is a parasitic vine that wraps around other plants and absorbs nutrients from them. The small seeds are an important kidney and essence tonic in Chinese medicine. Despite being a parasite that harms its host plant, dodder seed has a nourishing, tonifying effect on the human body. It is classified as a superior herb in the Shennong Bencao Jing.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
neutral
Flavors (五味)
sweet, bitter
Meridians (归经)
kidney, liver, spleen
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Tonifies kidney yang and yin
- Consolidates essence and reduces urination
- Improves vision (for blurred vision from deficiency)
- Tonifies spleen and stops diarrhea
- Settles the fetus (prevents miscarriage)
- Male infertility and low sperm count
- Lower back pain and impotence
- Tinnitus and dizziness
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Used in decoctions, pills, powders, and wines. The seeds are typically ground or crushed before use to increase extraction. Often combined with other kidney tonics like goji berries, eucommia, and rehmannia.
Suggested Dosage
Decoction: 6-15g daily (crush seeds first). Powder/Capsules: 3-10g daily. Wine: steeped in rice wine for 2-4 weeks, 10-20ml daily.
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Autumn, when fruits/seeds are fully mature. The vines are cut, dried, and threshed to release the small seeds.
Quality Indicators
Small, oval, yellow-brown seeds with slightly rough surface. Should be free of plant debris. Plump seeds are better than shriveled ones. Test by pressing between fingers - good seeds are hard and firm.
Storage
Store dried seeds in airtight container in cool, dry place. Can be stored for 2-3 years. Protect from insects.
Safety Information
Contraindications
Excess fire or yin deficiency with heat signsConstipation from heatDifficult urination (may worsen - it consolidates)Pregnancy (safe in formula doses prescribed by practitioner)Generally safe when used appropriately
Possible Side Effects
- Generally very safe and well-tolerated
- Rare: mild digestive upset
- Allergic reaction (extremely rare)
- May cause constipation in some people (consolidating effect)
Drug Interactions
- Diabetes medications (may lower blood sugar)
- Immunosuppressants (may stimulate immune function - mild)
- Generally low interaction risk
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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